All the World’s a (Neurotypical) Stage: Neurodivergent Folklore, Autistic Masking, and Virtual Spaces for Discussing Autistic Identity

Abstract

Abstract:In the field of folklore, there has been little attention paid to neurodivergence in relation to community despite the fact that a folkloric lens could productively be applied to aspects of neurodivergent culture(s) and neurodivergent communities. One such concept is “masking,” a conscious or subconscious act of suppressing neurodivergent traits in order to avoid stigma. Focusing on autism, this article discusses (1) masking as a performance of neurotypical identity, (2) how this type of performance can lead to autistic burnout and prevent autistic people from being authentically autistic, and (3) how social media has opened up spaces for discussions about masking, support, solidarity, and community as autistic content creators share their experiences of masking in a neurotypical world.